Niki Kerameos, Greece's Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, has heralded the signing of the National Social Agreement as a historic milestone for the country. She points out that this is the first occasion in Greece's history where all national social partners have reached an agreement with the government on such extensive matters. The Agreement, as discussed in her radio address on SKAI, introduces mechanisms that facilitate the creation and extension of collective labor agreements while ensuring worker protections after they expire.

The Agreement outlines three main components aimed at strengthening labor rights. One significant aspect is the increased ease with which collective agreements can be negotiated and expanded, allowing for more efficient and effective labor relations. Furthermore, it ensures that workers are protected even beyond the duration of these agreements, reinforcing job security and stability within the workforce. Kerameos stresses that this is a product of mutual concessions made during negotiations, highlighting a collaborative approach among the stakeholders involved.

However, the Minister faced criticism from opposition parties, particularly from PASOK, who argue that the negotiations should have included the National General Collective Agreement and called for the reinstatement of transitional employment protections. This indicates ongoing political debates surrounding labor rights and government policy, reflecting a tension between the ruling party's approach and the demands of the opposition for more robust protections for workers in Greece. The developments suggest that while the government is taking steps to boost employment and labor relations in the country, challenges remain in gaining unanimous support and addressing the concerns of various political factions.